DO student Radiology comlex only

[ScarletKnights]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hey everyone, so I just got my comlex score back and got a 611. I want to go into osteopathic radiology and have been doing some research on the topic but was hoping I could get some advice for my situation. I've read some of the older threads but I'm looking for some specific things here.
I know everyone says audition rotations are key, but unfortunately my school doesn't really give us the freedom to schedule our rotations. I'm under a very strict schedule and only have about 2 electives during audition season. Any advice on how to overcome a lack of auditions when matching in a competitive speciality? I really want to stay in the Northeast so programs like Brookhaven in Long Island and MHMC in New Jersey are my top choices. I'm open to going anywhere if needed though. Do I have any shot at small community programs without a step 1?

Any advice about radiology in general? I think my comlex score puts me at the average for applicants, but I know thats only a small part of an application. Any responses would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Dr Skeptismo]

611 is a good level 1, prob above average for osteopathic programs. Unfortunately, on the AOA side, scores aren't quite as important as facetime. Definitely rotate at as many of your top choice places as possible, and maybe you can try setting up "second looks" at places you interview at and like.

It's not too late to take step1, especially if you're already in study mode for level 2. Unless you have a close relationship with a specific AOA program, I can't think of a single benefit of going AOA rads over ACGME. In terms of location, volume, research, fellowships, pathology, teaching, and funding, ACGME has AOA beat. Not saying going AOA will be a hindrance to your career, but it's probably not going to make anything easier for you either.

 

[ScarletKnights]

Do you think any ACGME programs would accept a student with only a comlex score? I was planning on taking the USMLE but my NBME practice exams weren't in the range I needed, so I decided to cancel.

Also, any advice on getting a quick publication. Something like a case presentation. Or any advice in general on things to do to help make my application better. Even something small and simple is fine. I know Rads in competitive and I want to beef up my application as much as possible.

 

[Petypet]

Also, any advice on getting a quick publication. Something like a case presentation. Or any advice in general on things to do to help make my application better. Even something small and simple is fine. I know Rads in competitive and I want to beef up my application as much as possible.

Quick and publication are not usually used in the same sentence, even with a case report. It would be better show continuity in research rather than 1 random project done in just a few weeks. Your best bet is to contact researchers either in your medical school or at your local university. They can either hook you up with a mentor or program that can get you involved with research. I suggest you don't mention that you want it done quickly because they will just see that as CV padding.

 

[Counterstrain]

Do you think any ACGME programs would accept a student with only a comlex score? I was planning on taking the USMLE but my NBME practice exams weren't in the range I needed, so I decided to cancel.

Also, any advice on getting a quick publication. Something like a case presentation. Or any advice in general on things to do to help make my application better. Even something small and simple is fine. I know Rads in competitive and I want to beef up my application as much as possible.

I think your scores are fine for DO rads. Definitely facetime (AKA Do we like you) is weighted much more heavily at my program than research or the actual number on your comlex. (LOL I remember feeling the same way you do).

As for case presentations, you can put one together quick-ish, but you have to have access to clinical cases (which is usually impossible until your 3rd year). Once on clinicals, just keep a lookout for good cases and/or ask residents if they'll help you find a good case to write up.